What are the responsibilities and job description for the Student Services Specialist position at Shenandoah University?
Shenandoah University’s Office of Student Financial Services is seeking an exceptional individual to join our team as a Student Services Specialist in our Hornet Central one-stop department.
This is a full-time, entry level, benefited position located on the University’s main campus in Winchester, Virginia. The ideal candidate for this role should have a positive attitude, and an active, energetic mind that is characterized by highly ethical practices and a commitment to diversity, openness, flexibility, integrity, and kindness.
Under general supervision of the Director of Student Financial Services, this front-line position provides comprehensive counseling with current and future students and families, university faculty and staff in all areas relating to student services functions (Admissions, Registration, Academic Advisement, Financial Aid and Student Accounts) by telephone, in person and email communication. This position also provides support to Accounts Receivable processing payments for tuition, fees, and other charges through the University. This position supports cooperative cross-functional, cross-campus communications and dialogue by maintaining a close working relationship with all campus offices.
- Processing registration forms and academic records such as schedule change requests.
- Solving problems and addressing questions from students regarding registration and course controls (class permissions, closed classes and prerequisites).
- Collecting and processing university forms related to academic and personal information changes.
- Assisting students and other stakeholders with the completion of forms and responding to any questions regarding the form’s purpose, and processing time.
- Resolving problems or concerns with student account billing.
- Answering questions and explaining debits and credits, tuition and fee assessments as well as credit loads and their impact to tuition and refund/credit balance and refund disbursement processes.
- Providing information and guiding students/families through the online payment process.
- Assisting students with enrollment in the University’s payment plan.
- Assisting students by providing in-depth financial aid information concerning the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Assisting students with accepting their financial aid package and providing guidance in completion of entrance loan counseling and the master promissory note. Understanding and explaining different financial aid types: federal, state, institutional, and other funding options to all current and prospective inquiries.
- Processing payments for tuition, fees and other university charges.
- Reconciling daily cash, credit and check payments. Preparing daily deposit. Processing refunds and account adjustments.
Required Skills
- Applicant must have the ability to interact with a diverse student population, faculty, staff and the public.
- Must have the ability to analyze complex situations accurately and adopt effective
- Must be able to provide superior customer service and efficiency in response to campus and student inquiries in a fast-paced environment. Must have the ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with a variety of individuals.
- Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as the ability to acquire knowledge of campus procedures, activities, and the overall university organization.
- Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license.
Required Experience
- An Associate’s degree is required; a Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
- Required experience in customer service.
- Demonstrate ability to effectively utilize personal computers to include word processing, spreadsheet, and related software.
How to Apply:
The complete application will include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Applications will be reviewed immediately and will continue until a qualified candidate is selected.
**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.
Authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.
Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.